Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Philippines Summary
These place ratings give you a quick overview of how well a destination matches different types of trips.
‘Best for’ scores:
The specific interest scores show where this place really shines – whether it's ideal for hiking, food & drink experiences, museums or other activities. These highlights help you understand what makes the destination special at a glance.
‘Your personal’ scores:
This reflects how well a place matches your personal preferences. You can adjust the importances of travel topics or other personal requirements categories in your account settings.
‘Suited for’ badges:
These give you a quick overview of how well a destination suits specific types of travellers, to help you find the places that match your lifestyle, preferences or travel situation.
Suited for
Philippines – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
220 V, 60 Hz Plug: Type A , Type B
Type A:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
Philippine Peso (PHP) £1 ≈ ₱85.07 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 3/5
Cashless payments are increasingly common, especially in larger cities and tourist areas, but cash is still widely used in rural areas.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is not mandatory in the Philippines, but it is appreciated. 10% is standard in restaurants. Small tips are welcome for taxi drivers and hotel staff. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking is prohibited in many areas, but alcohol consumption is allowed in licensed venues. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is allowed in designated areas, but smoking indoors in public spaces is generally prohibited. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 911 (Police, Fire, Ambulance) |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | Grab |
| Other: | The Philippines is known for its stunning beaches, unique wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Be mindful of the weather, as typhoon season can affect certain regions. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for Philippines, Philippines
Climate varies by coast: Palawan, Boracay, Cebu and Bohol are best December to May, while the east coast (Siargao, Samar) is wettest November to February
Typhoon season June to November, peaking August to October, mainly hitting the north and east; flight and ferry cancellations are common
Holy Week (Easter week): most Filipinos travel, beaches and transport are fully booked, and many businesses close Thursday to Saturday
Don't miss
- 🏖️ Relax on the powdery white sands of Boracay
- 🦈 Dive with whale sharks in Oslob, Cebu
- 🛶 Cruise the emerald lagoons of El Nido, Palawan
- 🌄 See the world-famous Chocolate Hills of Bohol
- 🏰 Visit Intramuros and walk through Manila’s colonial past
- 💦 Swim beneath the Kawasan Falls’ refreshing turquoise water
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Why travel to Philippines?
The Philippines' appeal lies in its incredible diversity of experiences. The country boasts world-class diving spots like Malapascua where you can swim with thresher sharks and Moalboal with its sardine runs. White sand beaches in Boracay and El Nido rival any tropical paradise, while natural wonders like the Chocolate Hills in Bohol and the rice terraces of Banaue showcase the country's stunning landscapes. Cultural experiences abound, from riding colorful jeepneys to joining karaoke sessions with locals, creating memories that last a lifetime. However, traveling in the Philippines comes with challenges. The archipelagic nature means island-hopping requires careful planning, with transportation delays common due to weather conditions. Typhoons can disrupt travel plans, especially from June to November. Always get proof of any travel delays or cancellations from officials to avoid penalties with connecting flights. The extreme air conditioning in transportation and buildings might require extra layers even in tropical heat. Despite these challenges, the Philippines rewards those who embrace the journey as part of the adventure.
🏙️Cities & Regions
-
1
Boracay
A vibrant island in the Philippines, Boracay features powdery white sand beaches and turquoise waters. The nightlife thrives along the main strip, while calm lagoons offer perfect snorkeling spots for visitors seeking relaxation and adventure. -
2
Cebu City
A bustling commercial hub in central Philippines, Cebu City offers a mix of historic Spanish architecture and modern skyscrapers. The city’s port connects to nearby islands, while its vibrant markets, churches and waterfront promenade attract visitors year‑round. -
3
Manila
Capital city of the Philippines, Manila offers a mix of colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers. Historic Intramuros, bustling markets and vibrant nightlife coexist with waterfront promenades along Manila Bay, making it a dynamic urban hub. -
4
Baguio
This cool hill station in northern Luzon offers misty pine forests and colonial villas, instantly setting it apart from Manila’s bustle. Baguio’s vibrant night market, Botanical Garden and the iconic Burnham Park attract visitors seeking fresh air and cultural charm, especially in summer. -
5
Palawan
This tropical paradise features dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear lagoons and vibrant coral reefs. The island's coastline offers pristine beaches, while inland areas hide hidden waterfalls and lush rainforests perfect for adventure seekers exploring Palawan's natural wonders. -
6
Bohol
This Philippine island province features dramatic limestone cliffs, lush rainforests and pristine beaches. Known for its rich biodiversity and vibrant culture, it offers world-class diving spots and charming towns that blend tradition with modern tourism seamlessly throughout the year. -
7
Siquijor
A mystical island in the Philippines known for its spiritual heritage and healing traditions. The landscape features lush greenery, dramatic cliffs and serene beaches that attract visitors seeking both adventure and tranquility in this culturally rich destination.
🏯Places worth seeing
-
1
Rizal Park
This historic green space in Manila offers peaceful walking paths, cultural monuments and panoramic city views. It serves as a quiet retreat from the bustling metropolis, attracting locals seeking relaxation and history amidst nature's embrace. -
2
National Museum of Natural History
Housed in a historic building, this museum showcases Philippine biodiversity through exhibits on geology, botany and zoology. Its collections highlight the archipelago's unique natural heritage and scientific research spanning centuries of exploration. -
3
White Beach
-
4
Fort Santiago
-
5
Intramuros
-
6
Chocolate Hills
-
7
Magellan's Cross Cebu
-
8
Lio Beach
🎡Places for activities
🏞️Natural landmarks
🛍️Shopping
-
1
SM Mall of Asia
The Philippines' premier shopping complex features an iconic dome, expansive malls and diverse dining options. Its modern architecture stands out against the city skyline, offering a vibrant hub for retail and entertainment in Manila. -
2
Wet Market (talipapa)
-
3
Divisoria Market
-
4
Carbon Main Public Market
-
5
Harrison Night Market
-
6
Greenhills Shopping Center
-
7
Robinsons Place
-
8
Ayala Malls
-
9
Tutuban Center
🎈Events
-
Sinulog Festival (Cebu, January)
-
Ati-Atihan Festival (Aklan, January)
-
Dinagyang Festival (Iloilo, January)
-
Masskara Festival (Bacolod, October)
-
Panagbenga Festival (Baguio, February)
-
Kadayawan Festival (Davao, August)
-
Pahiyas Festival (Quezon, May)
-
Giant Lantern Festival (Pampanga, December)
-
Moriones Festival (Marinduque, Easter)
-
Lanzones Festival (Camiguin, October)
Knowledge before you go
- Use Grab app for safe, reliable rides everywhere.
- Avoid Mindanao areas due to terrorism and kidnapping risks; stick to Palawan, Boracay.
- Drink only bottled water and use sunscreen; typhoon season runs June through November.
- Dress modestly at churches, learn basic Tagalog phrases; locals love respectful tourists.
How to travel to Philippines
Most international travelers arrive via major airports in Manila, Cebu or Davao. As of March 2025, all visitors must register with the e-travel system up to 72 hours before arrival. For visa-free entry (up to 30 days), you must have a return or onward ticket. Before boarding your flight, ensure you have your e-travel QR code ready. If staying longer than 30 days, you can apply for an extension while in the country. Overstaying can result in fines, detention or deportation.
Access summary
- Manila/Metro Manila: Fly to Ninoy Aquino (MNL) from major Asian/global hubs.
- Cebu/Visayas islands: International or domestic flights to Mactan-Cebu (CEB) via MNL.
- Palawan/Boracay: Fly via MNL/CEB to PPS or KLO/MPH; boat transfers.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay in Philippines
The Philippines offers accommodations for every budget, from luxury resorts on pristine beaches to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Major tourist destinations like Boracay, Palawan and Cebu have international hotel chains, while more remote islands feature unique eco-lodges and traditional cottages. For authentic experiences, consider homestays in rural areas or beachfront bungalows. Book well in advance for peak tourist season (December to May) when prices surge and availability becomes limited.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
How to get around Philippines
Getting around the Philippines requires patience and flexibility. In cities, options include jeepneys (colorful converted military jeeps), tricycles (motorcycles with sidecars) and ride-sharing services. For island hopping, ferries connect major islands, though schedules can be unreliable and weather-dependent. Always dedicate entire days for inter-island travel and leave buffer time for delays. For remote islands, local wooden boats often provide more direct routes than commercial ferries, though at higher prices.
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.
To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in Philippines are around 74% lower than the average across United States. That means you'll spend a lot less on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to PHP) is 19% better than in recent years. That means travelling now is considerably cheaper compared to the past.
Travel costs
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
Daily cost summary
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
| Backpacker | Mid-range | Luxury | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 💵 Total costs per day, including accommodation | |||
| 🏨 Accommodation per night, per person | |||
| 🍝 Food per day | |||
| 🚕 Transportation per day |
Food & Drink
| 🍽️ Restaurant Dinner, per person | |
|---|---|
| 🍛 Lunch Set, per person | |
| 🍟 Fast food combo | |
| 🍝 Preparing your own food, per day | |
| ☕ Cappuccino | |
| 🍺 Beer in a restaurant, 0.5 l |
Transportation
| 🚌 Public transport ticket | |
|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi Ride, 10 km / 6 mi | |
| ⛽ Petrol, 1 l |
Other
| 🎞️ Cinema ticket | |
|---|---|
| 👩⚕️ Doctor's consult | |
| 🤧 Cold medication | |
| 💇 Basic haircut |
Safety information overview
General safety
The Philippines is generally safe in tourist areas, but exercise caution in crowded places where pickpocketing occurs. Avoid travel to parts of Mindanao due to terrorism risks. In emergencies, call 911. Always get travel insurance and register with your embassy.
Health & Medical
Medical care varies widely across the Philippines, with better facilities in major cities. Private hospital treatment is expensive, costing up to £1,000 daily for intensive care. Mosquito-borne diseases like dengue are risks year-round, especially during rainy season (June-October).
Accessibility
Accessibility is challenging in the Philippines, especially in rural areas and on islands. Major tourist destinations have improved facilities, but expect uneven pavements, stairs and limited infrastructure for mobility-impaired travelers. Luxury hotels offer better accessibility options.
Tap water
Tap water is unsafe for drinking throughout the Philippines. Rely on bottled water with sealed caps or use water purification methods. Public drinking fountains are rare, so carry sufficient water when exploring, especially during hot months.
Packing recommendations for Philippines
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🌞
Sun cream
high SPF
👕
Light, breathable clothing
🧥
Light jacket
☂️
Folding umbrella
🪰
Insect repellent
🩱
Swimwear
🧕
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees
🩴
Flip-flops
🏖️
Beach towel
🧶
Light jumper
🔋
Power bank
🩹
Basic first aid kit
📃
Travel insurance
🪪
Copies of passport and important documents
💦
Waterproof dry bag
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
🩺
Prescription medicines
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
🛂
Passport
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